The American Library Association (ALA) recently announced 29 advisors for a national initiative called Aging Together: An Evaluation of Library Programming for Older Adults. An advisory committee, comprised of 13 library advisors and their community partners, will inform the initiative's research and provide feedback.
Breanna Williams, Programs Manager for Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky, has been selected as a community partner of Morgan Lockard-Ellis at Campbell County Public Library (CCPL) in Fort Thomas.
ALA describes the evaluation as follows:
"For many older adults, public libraries are vital community spaces for learning, recreation, wellness, and social connections. As this population continues to grow, libraries face an important opportunity to design programs that respond to their evolving needs. Yet with limited research on the impact of library services for older adults, there is a need to fill the gap. Aging Together will equip libraries nationwide to strengthen programs that reduce isolation, support health and well-being, provide end-of-life resources, and assist caregivers."
Advisors will review the current landscape of older adult programming and analyze existing data to make recommendations for future programming. A final report is expected in February 2027.
Williams, who manages Meals on Wheels' social connection and health and wellness programs, has partnered with CCPL for the past two years on behalf of our organization. This partnership has enabled Meals on Wheels to reach more older adults in Northern Kentucky—specifically for our Digital Connect program. A digital literacy training program, Digital Connect equips older adults with foundational technical skills and knowledge of mobile tablet devices. Upon completion of three courses, adults earn a table of their own to keep.
Meals on Wheels Digital Connect coordinators are trained in an AARP-licensed curriculum called Older Adults Technology Services (OATS). Coordinators and library staff at each of the CCPL branches work together to expand programmatic reach and expose more older adults to technical learning.
"Our partnership with Campbell County Public Library reflects what’s possible when strong community institutions collaborate: bringing much-needed digital skills directly to seniors where they already feel welcome," says Williams.
Digital Connect has been a particularly successful program of Meals on Wheels. Its training has enabled older adults to safely navigate the internet, stay more connected to friends and loved ones, access telehealth options, and enjoy favorite pastimes like reading, playing games and puzzles, or watching their favorite television shows and movies. Robert Burns, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, stays connected with other veterans thoroughly regular group calls. Mary Mitts, a Meals on Wheels client, enjoys using her tablet to check out e-books from the library.
Other graduates of our Digital Connect program tell us it they use their tablet to communicate with their doctors, participate more comfortably in Zoom calls, research new topics and learn new skills, and engage in virtual health and wellness programs offered by Meals on Wheels (like online Spanish class, and mindful morning sessions offered through Televeda).
Says Williams, “The vision of Digital Connect aligns with our mission to reduce isolation. Expanding OATS programming ensures older adults are not left behind in an increasingly digital world. This program equips seniors with the skills, confidence and support needed to stay connected.”
About Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky's Health & Wellness and Social Connection Programs
Seniors thrive when more than just their dietary needs are met. Meals on Wheels goes beyond feeding their bodies with home-delivered meals and congregate meals by nourishing their minds and spirits with health and wellness programs offered virtually and in-person. Many of these programs are offered free of charge. In-person engagement opportunities bring seniors and older adults into social settings through group outings, meals together, exercise classes, community events and lifelong learning. Virtual health and wellness engagement keeps seniors active and connected to others from the comfort of their own homes. View more details here.
About the American Library Association
The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org.